Pet Talk

Laurie Fass discusses the risks of crossbreeding animal species, highlighting the recent buzz around the de-extinct Dire Wolf. She also warns viewers to be skeptical of viral animal rescue videos on YouTube, noting that many are staged for likes and followers. Laurie shares tips on how to spot fake videos and urges caution when watching them. She also takes listener calls on topics like adoption a...

Dr. Andrea Dennis discusses the process of microchipping pets, how it works when a stray animal is found, and the challenges that arise if a microchip company shuts down. She explains what pet owners should do if their registered microchip company goes missing and provides guidance on how to reconnect with a lost pet through proper microchip registration and tracking.

Laurie Fass discusses designer dogs and how the popularity of certain breeds changes over time, based on American Kennel Club (AKC) registration data. She notes that the data may be skewed since not all dogs are officially registered. A caller asks about registering his Staffordshire Terrier with the AKC, prompting Laurie to explain the challenges of the process, especially for show participation....

Laurie Fass discusses the rising popularity of designer dog breeds and how their unique names are created. She explains the distinction between designer breeds and hybrids, clarifying common misconceptions. Additionally, she explores the pros and cons of owning these mixed breeds, offering insights into what potential owners should expect and consider before purchasing one.

Dr. Andrea Dennis discusses how to care for pets as the seasons change, particularly addressing weight gain and the importance of managing obesity. She emphasizes the need to check calorie counts and offers diet tips to help pets maintain a healthy weight. Dr. Dennis also responds to a caller’s question about getting x-rays for an elderly dog with a heart condition and provides guidance on the iss...

Laurie Fass discusses the accuracy of animal weather prognosticators like Punxsutawney Phil and shares tips for pet owners on managing muddy yards after snow melts. She advises a caller on handling a dog's separation anxiety and offers suggestions for keeping dogs active during winter. Additionally, she explores the history of presidential pets, including a claim that Donald Trump has a robot dog.

Laurie Fass discusses how animals communicate, highlighting the book Why Animals Talk: The New Science of Animal Communication by Arik Kershenbaum. She focuses on how dogs and cats vocalize, with an emphasis on dogs, exploring why they vocalize, the meaning behind different vocalizations, and how pet owners should respond. Additionally, she takes a call from a listener seeking advice on integratin...

Laurie Fass celebrates the Chinese New Year of the Snake with Brian Kleinman, owner of Riverside Reptiles Education Center in Enfield, discussing snakes, reptiles, and their rescue work. They explore the pros and cons of owning reptiles as pets, what to expect when caring for them, and the unique features of the center, which focuses on education, conservation, and showcasing reptiles and amphibia...

A look back at past shows from 2024. A caller, who had called in before, had more questions about a Tom cat that has adopted him, and his 13 year old cat who is not always pleased about it.

Dr. Andrea Dennis explores a range of pet related topics, focusing on health, safety, and overall care. She addresses avian influenza (bird flu), offering valuable insights and precautions for those with backyard chickens to help prevent the spread of the disease. Additionally, she emphasizes the hazards of ice melts during winter and provides practical tips to protect pets. Dr. Dennis also answer...

Laurie Fass discusses how dogs react to colder temperatures, including tips on protecting their paws, getting them used to boots, and washing their feet after walks. She highlights how different breeds and coats handle the cold and provides advice for helping pets during winter months. Laurie also addresses a caller's question about a stray cat adopting their home and shares insights on the impact...

Dr. Andrea Dennis shares insights on enjoying a safe and happy holiday season with pets. She provides tips on keeping dogs and cats safe around Christmas trees, ornaments, lights, cords, and tinsel, as well as gift ideas for pets and their owners. Additionally, she offers advice on preparing for winter and potential disasters, ensuring pets are well cared for during the season.

Laurie Fass recaps her Thanksgiving and shares what she gave her pets, discussing which human foods are safe and unsafe for animals. She also addresses leash manners and dog walking, emphasizing the importance of training while offering tips and statistics. Laurie takes a call about introducing a new cat into a household with an existing cat, providing advice on the process. Additionally, she resp...

Laurie Fass discusses the Peanut the Squirrel incident in New York State, sharing her perspective and what actions she would take in such a situation. She examines the various options law enforcement could have pursued, highlighting the distinction between the letter and intent of the law and how it can be misinterpreted when it comes to animals. Laurie also delves into the legalities of pet owner...

With the holiday season fast approaching, Dr. Andrea Dennis shares valuable advice on pet care, starting with Thanksgiving. She highlights safe and healthy foods for pets, how to prepare them, and which foods to avoid. Additionally, she addresses callers' concerns about their pets, including issues related to itching, coughing, and claw trimming.

Laurie Fass discusses her experiences with separation anxiety in dogs, available treatments, and answers behavioral questions from callers about training, caring for elderly dogs, and working with rescue dogs.

November is National Senior Pet Month, and Dr. Andrea Dennis shares the joys of adopting senior pets while cautioning that it may not be suitable for everyone. She defines what constitutes a senior pet and addresses hyperthyroidism in older animals, particularly in cats. Dr. Dennis highlights key signs to watch for, treatment options, and discusses the ways we connect with our pets.

Dr. Andrea Dennis talks about how to keep pets safe during Halloween, covering key issues such as managing pet anxiety when guests come over, animals tolerating costumes, and the risks associated with Halloween candy. She also offers tips to help pets navigate the holiday more comfortably.

Laurie Fass talks about online pop-up ads focused on dog training and animal products, the risks associated with retractable leashes, dressing pets in Halloween costumes and jackets, the impact of daylight saving time on animals, and the importance of choosing the right dog for you.

Laurie Fass discusses the precautions to take with robotic automated litter boxes for cats and emphasizes the importance of thoroughly understanding reviews, contracts, and guarantees related to animal products and services.

There are so many new and surprising types of kitty litter. It can be confusing picking one that's right for your cat. "The Kiffness" is a South African musician who is known for making funny and clever musical mixes often using sounds from dogs and cats. Recently he went viral with a mix spoofing Trump's comments about "they're eating the dogs and eating the cats". Resource guarding is a common p...